When it comes to adding a burst of flavor to your meals, few ingredients can rival the bright and tangy taste of lemons. Whether you’re looking to elevate a classic dish or create something entirely new, lemons are the perfect addition to any kitchen. From seafood to poultry, pasta to roasted vegetables, we’ve gathered 18 zesty lemon recipes that are sure to delight your dinner table.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through a variety of dishes that showcase the versatility and appeal of lemons. From classic pairings like garlic and butter to innovative combinations with herbs and spices, these recipes will inspire you to get creative in the kitchen and add a squeeze of sunshine to your meals.
Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta
This recipe combines the sweetness of shrimp with the brightness of lemon, all wrapped up in a rich garlic butter sauce served over al dente pasta. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 8 oz pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti, fettuccine)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
4. Stir in lemon juice and olive oil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Toss cooked pasta with the shrimp mixture.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken
Elevate your outdoor dining experience with this zesty and aromatic Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken recipe. The combination of juicy chicken, tangy lemon, and fragrant herbs will transport you to the Mediterranean coast.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh thyme
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, rosemary, thyme, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Place chicken breasts in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Let it sit for 15-20 minutes.
4. Grill chicken for 5-6 minutes per side or until cooked through.
5. Let chicken rest for a few minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Lemon Basil Salmon with Asparagus
Brighten up your dinner plate with this flavorful and refreshing dish featuring succulent salmon, tender asparagus, and a hint of citrusy lemon basil sauce. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 lb fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Place the salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
5. Roast in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Meanwhile, toss asparagus with lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
7. Spread asparagus on a separate baking sheet and roast for 8-10 minutes or until tender.
8. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, lemon zest, and chopped basil.
9. Serve the salmon with roasted asparagus and drizzle with lemon-basil sauce.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lemon Ricotta Stuffed Shells
Elevate your pasta game with this refreshing take on traditional stuffed shells. The tangy combination of lemon and ricotta cheese adds a delightful twist to this comforting dish.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, lemon juice, olive oil, onion, garlic, and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Stuff each cooked pasta shell with the lemon ricotta mixture.
5. Place stuffed shells in a 9×13-inch baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lemon Rosemary Roasted Potatoes
Elevate your roasted potatoes with the zesty brightness of lemon and the earthy warmth of rosemary. This simple recipe yields a deliciously aromatic side dish perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 large Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch wedges
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– 1 lemon, zested and juiced (about 2 tablespoons)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss potatoes with olive oil, garlic, rosemary, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
3. Spread potato mixture on a baking sheet in a single layer.
4. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until potatoes are golden brown and tender.
5. Remove from oven and drizzle with lemon juice and zest.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lemon Butter Garlic Scallops
Succulent scallops infused with the zesty flavors of lemon, butter, and garlic – a perfect dish for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 large scallops
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 1/4 cup)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse scallops under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Remove from heat and stir in lemon juice.
5. Place scallops on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle the lemon butter mixture evenly over the scallops.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until scallops are cooked through and slightly golden.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Lemon Thyme Roasted Chicken
Elevate your roasted chicken game with this refreshing and aromatic recipe, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. The combination of juicy lemon and fragrant thyme creates a harmonious balance of flavors that will leave you wanting more.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs)
– 2 lemons, zested and juiced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tsp dried thyme
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the chicken and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together lemon zest, juice, olive oil, thyme, salt, and pepper.
4. Rub the mixture all over the chicken, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
5. Place the chicken in a roasting pan and put it in the oven.
6. Roast for 45-50 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
7. Let the chicken rest for 10-15 minutes before carving and serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Lemon Parmesan Crusted Tilapia
Add a burst of citrusy flavor to your seafood with this simple and delicious recipe.
Ingredients:
– 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tbsp lemon zest
– 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup lemon juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together panko breadcrumbs, lemon zest, Parmesan cheese, and garlic.
3. Season tilapia fillets with salt and pepper.
4. Dip each fillet in lemon juice, then coat in breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Place coated fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Lemon Orzo with Spinach and Feta
This Mediterranean-inspired recipe combines the creamy richness of feta cheese, the nutty flavor of orzo, and the tangy brightness of lemon to create a delightful side dish perfect for spring and summer gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup orzo
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh spinach
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook orzo according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Stir in lemon juice, spinach, and cooked orzo. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Top with crumbled feta cheese and serve warm.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lemon Garlic Butter Steak Bites
Lemon Garlic Butter Steak Bites: A flavorful twist on classic steak bites, this recipe combines the brightness of lemon with the richness of garlic butter and tender steak.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef steak (such as ribeye or sirloin), cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 2 tablespoons)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix together garlic, lemon juice, and butter until well combined.
3. Add the steak cubes to the bowl and toss to coat with the garlic-lemon butter mixture.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the steak bites in a single layer.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked to your desired level of doneness.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Lemon Herb Roasted Vegetables
Lemon Herb Roasted Vegetables: Brighten up your meals with a burst of citrus flavor!
Ingredients:
– 2-3 carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2-3 Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
– 1 large red bell pepper, seeded and sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1 tsp lemon zest
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 2 tbsp)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss together chopped carrots, Brussels sprouts, red bell pepper, garlic, olive oil, thyme, lemon zest, salt, and pepper until the vegetables are evenly coated.
3. Spread the mixture in a single layer on a baking sheet.
4. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until the vegetables are tender and lightly caramelized, flipping halfway through.
5. Remove from oven and drizzle with lemon juice. Toss to coat.
6. Serve hot, garnished with additional thyme if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lemon Caper Chicken Piccata
Lemon Caper Chicken Piccata: A Bright and Zesty Twist on a Classic Italian Dish
This recipe adds a burst of citrusy freshness to the traditional piccata, with a tangy lemon-caper sauce that complements the crispy chicken perfectly.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 1/4 cup capers, rinsed and drained
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
2. Dredge the chicken in flour, shaking off excess.
3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until cooked through.
4. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
5. Reduce heat to medium. Add garlic, lemon juice, and capers to the skillet; simmer for 1 minute.
6. If using white wine, add it to the skillet and cook until reduced by half.
7. Serve the chicken with the lemon-caper sauce spooned over the top. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lemon Garlic Butter Mushroom Risotto
A creamy and flavorful Italian-inspired dish that combines the richness of butter and parmesan with the brightness of lemon and the earthiness of mushrooms. This risotto is perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 8 oz mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add mushrooms and cook until they release their liquid and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
4. Add Arborio rice and stir to coat with butter and garlic mixture.
5. Add warmed broth, one cup at a time, stirring continuously and allowing each portion to absorb before adding the next.
6. Stir in lemon juice and Parmesan cheese.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lemon Dill Grilled Cod
Brighten up your dinner table with this refreshing and flavorful grilled cod recipe, infused with the citrusy zing of lemon and the subtle sweetness of dill. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a summer barbecue.
Ingredients:
– 4 cod fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup freshly chopped dill
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: lemon wedges for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together dill, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
3. Brush both sides of the cod fillets with olive oil.
4. Place cod on the grill and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. During the last minute of cooking, brush the top of each fillet with the dill-lemon mixture.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with additional lemon wedges if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-16 minutes
Lemon Herb Roasted Pork Tenderloin
Elevate your dinner game with this refreshing and flavorful recipe that combines the brightness of lemon with the earthiness of herbs. This dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 (1-2 pound) pork tenderloin
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 2 tablespoons)
– 4 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– 4 sprigs fresh thyme, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, rosemary, thyme, and garlic.
3. Place the pork tenderloin in a roasting pan and brush with the lemon mixture.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
5. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
6. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lemon Butter Garlic Green Beans
Brighten up your meal with this simple yet flavorful side dish that combines the natural sweetness of green beans with the tanginess of lemon and the richness of butter and garlic.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Blanch the green beans for 4-5 minutes or until slightly tender.
2. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the garlic and sauté for 1 minute or until fragrant.
3. Add the blanched green beans to the skillet and toss with the garlic butter mixture.
4. Squeeze the lemon juice over the green beans and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with lemon wedges if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lemon Pepper Grilled Shrimp Skewers
Lemon Pepper Grilled Shrimp Skewers: A flavorful and refreshing summer treat that’s perfect for any occasion!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 teaspoons lemon pepper seasoning
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 10 bamboo skewers
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, lemon pepper seasoning, and garlic.
3. Add the shrimp to the marinade and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4. Thread the marinated shrimp onto the skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Grill the skewers for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
Cooking Time: 6-8 minutes
Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs
Elevate your dinner routine with this easy and aromatic recipe, perfect for a weeknight meal or special occasion. The combination of tender chicken, tangy lemon, and rich butter will leave you wanting more.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 2 tablespoons)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together garlic, lemon juice, and softened butter.
3. Season chicken thighs with salt and pepper.
4. Place chicken thighs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Spread the lemon-garlic butter mixture evenly over each thigh.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Discover the brightness and zest of lemons in these 18 delicious recipes! From seafood to poultry, pasta to vegetables, there’s something for everyone. Try Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta, Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken, or Lemon Basil Salmon with Asparagus for a taste of sunshine on your plate. Or, indulge in creamy Lemon Ricotta Stuffed Shells, crispy Lemon Parmesan Crusted Tilapia, or hearty Lemon Garlic Butter Steak Bites. Whatever your craving, these zesty lemon recipes are sure to delight!
